How to Replace the Air Filter Element?
3 Answers
About replacing the car air filter element, the main steps are as follows: 1. First, open the engine hood, confirm the position of the air cleaner, generally inside the car, open the hood switch, then open the hood, and prop it up with the support rod. 2. Determine the position of the air cleaner. The air filter is usually located in the engine compartment, connected to the intake pipe on one side and the engine on the other. You can see a square black plastic box where the air filter element is installed. 3. Generally, the plastic box containing the air cleaner is fixed with clips. Just gently lift the two metal clips upwards to open the entire air cleaner cover. Some models may use screws to fix the air filter. In this case, select an appropriate screwdriver to remove the screws on the air cleaner box, then you can see the air filter inside and remove it by hand. 4. After removing the air filter element, check if there is a lot of dust. You can gently tap the end face of the filter or use compressed air to clean the dust from the inside out. Do not rinse it with tap water. If the air filter is found to be blackened and clogged, it needs to be replaced with a new one. 5. Before installing the new air filter, thoroughly clean the bottom of the air filter box to remove all dust beneath the filter. 6. After cleaning the air filter box, install the new air filter. Once securely installed, fasten the air filter box cover and reattach the clips to ensure the installed air filter box is tightly sealed. 7. After installation, test the engine to ensure normal operation, then lower the engine hood.
I really enjoy changing the air filter by myself because it's simple and cost-effective. I drive a lot, so the air filter gets dirty quickly, which affects engine air intake. Open the hood and locate the air filter box, which is usually secured with clips or screws. After loosening them, gently remove the old filter - you'll see a lot of dust inside. Clean the interior of the box with a dry cloth to prevent dust leakage. Make sure to install the new filter in the correct orientation to ensure proper sealing. After placing it, tightly close the lid. I change it every 10,000 kilometers using genuine parts, and the car runs more smoothly afterwards. I was a bit afraid of damaging something at first, but after watching tutorial videos, I gained confidence. The whole process takes less than 20 minutes, and I can check other components while I'm at it.
After driving for over 30 years, changing an air filter is something I can do with my eyes closed. Engine performance depends on it, and a dirty filter increases fuel consumption. Locating the filter housing is easy—it's usually at the front of the engine. Unclip or unscrew the fasteners and gently remove the old filter. Remember to clean the housing grooves; a quick vacuum or blowout is safest. When installing the new filter, don’t force it—align the edges properly. After replacement, the engine should sound smoother. I recommend changing it every 8,000 km, using a mid-range filter. In dusty or sandy conditions, replace it more frequently. DIY saves you dozens of dollars and helps you understand your car—totally worth it.
